South Yorkshire Police has appealed to those living in rural communities to help their local farmers protect their livestock after recent cases of sheep worrying by dogs.
The force’s rural crime officers asked that those in rural communities help “take actions against irresponsible dog owners who are posing a risk to local livestock” after they reported that a sheep was recently chased and dragged into a river by its neck.
Officers said they were called to reports of a bull terrier-type dog chasing and causing distress to sheep at Langsett Reservoir.
Rural and wildlife crime officer PC Paul Jameson said Langsett’s features and beauty are being overshadowed by people’s irresponsibility which is “causing animals to become seriously injured or lose their lives”.
“We have recently publicised, encouraged and provided signage around rural areas to ask that people walking their dogs keep them on a lead around livestock and moorlands,” he said.
“There is signage at Langsett and on many farms close by reminding dog walkers of this and the consequences.
“The injuries that sheep suffer from dogs is completely avoidable. These incidents also put the lives of unborn lambs at risk, as well as potentially leaving young lambs with no mother.
“This is not to mention the loss to the farmer and the distress of those who witness these attacks.”
Livestock worrying
South Yorkshire Police said it is pleading with rural communities after this incident was the second in two days related to sheep being attacked by dogs.
The force also issued a reminder to dog owners that allowing a dog to worry or attack livestock is a criminal offence under the Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 and that landowners have the authority to shoot and kill dogs that are worrying their livestock.
Dog owners can also have their dog seized and face up to £1000 in costs.
“I am urging you to put your dog on a lead around livestock and keep to the designated paths, but also call out those who are posing a risk,” Jameson said.
“If you are aware of someone who lets their dog worry sheep, or if you witness an incident please share as much information about dog and their owner to us.
“We are so fortunate to have such beautiful landscape and it’s everyone’s responsibility to ensure it’s safety.”
